According to home improvement experts, the fact that environmental awareness is celebrated just one day out of the year is an outmoded idea in 2019. With greater threats and stresses on the planet, organizations such as the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) are calling for a much bigger focus on how homeowners can live more sustainably not just on April 22, but 365 days a year.

It’s a trend homeowners also are embracing. The National Association of Realtors reports that 61 percent of people are interested in sustainability and are increasingly aware of their everyday environmental footprint. Additionally, high-tech advancements of “green” products is driving adoption. Today, some of the most sustainable home improvement options on the market can outperform their rivals when it comes to reliability and performance.

“Homeowners are very aware of how the decisions they make directly impact the planet,” said Renee Ramey, executive director of the Metal Roofing Alliance. “Climate extremes are driving renewed focus on material selection; many people have seen first-hand how using cheaper, less durable materials that aren’t designed to stand up to severe conditions can be terribly wasteful, inefficient and more costly in the long run.”

With rooftops being one of the most important features of exterior home protection, the MRA offers tips for better long-term sustainability:

Rev up rooftop performanceRooftops take up major square-footage and with a little planning, that space can not only keep a home dry, safe and comfortable, it can become a powerful producer. Consider installing rooftop solar panels the same time as a roof replacement. While the upfront investment may be higher, solar panels can help produce clean energy and offset energy costs for years to follow. Keep in mind that having to repair or replace a roof and re-install panels can quickly wipe out any savings realized, so be sure to use a durable, long-lasting roof material, such as metal.

Reduce waste through better durabilityMaterials such as asphalt don’t last as long, and by using cheaply made, less reliable materials, homeowners can end up having to replace their roofs as many as three times over its lifetime as compared to installing a quality metal roof designed to last 50-plus years. Using longer-lasting materials not only reduces waste significantly, but it can help save a tremendous amount of money over the long run. Naturally durable and watertight, metal roofs also can help prevent leaks and better protect a home’s interior against costly, wasteful damage.

Analyze the entire life cycleMetal roofing material often comes from recycled material and upon the end of its long life, it can be recycled and re-purposed again and again. No other roofing type can claim such a robust closed loop cycle that works to prevent materials from ending up in the landfill and reduces the need for raw materials.

Be mindful of maintenanceIn some climates, rooftops exposed to constant moisture or humid conditions can be a breeding ground for moss or fungus, and require heavy, harsh chemicals to clean and maintain, which can be harmful to other plants, wildlife and waterways. Metal roofs require a simple solution of mild soap and water to keep not only the roof cleaner, but the environment as well.

Realize all-season efficiencyThanks to special, high-tech coatings, quality metal roofs are considered “Cool Roofs.” They do a better job reflecting solar radiation, are ENERGY STAR qualified, and help save energy by lowering roof temperatures by as much as 50 percent.

Sustainability doesn't mean sacrificing safetyClimate changes are driving the need for resilient homes. From wildfires to hurricanes, metal roofs can withstand extremes better than other roof types. Metal roofs have a “Class A” fire rating, the highest possible, and can withstand hurricane force winds exceeding 140-mph. Talk to your installer about the regional threats in your area, and options for protective measures that may help your home stand strong against whatever tomorrow may bring.

About Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA)Representing metal roofing manufacturers in the United States and Canada, the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) was formed in 1998 as a nonprofit organization to help educate consumers about the many benefits of metal roofs. The main objective of MRA is to increase awareness of the beauty, durability and money-saving advantages of quality metal roofs among homeowners, as well as to provide support for metal roofing businesses and contractors. For more information, visit MRA.